Author Archive - Jason Pantig (Threat Response Engineer)

Since data is the new digital currency, it is not uncommon to read about data stealers designed to collect users’ personally identifiable information (PPI) like credit cards, etc. So the entry of ‘Dexter’ in the threat picture comes as no surprise, especially as the holiday season draws near.

There are reports of a malware that targets point-of-sale (POS) systems used to store payment card data. Point-of-sale (like checkout counters) is typically where payment for goods and services occur. Given the wealth of data found on these payment hubs, it’s expected that these are the next targets of cybercriminal activities.

Dubbed ‘Dexter’ (Trend Micro detection BKDR_DEXTR.A), the malware was reportedly found in (POS) systems of popular establishments, hotels, and other businesses. Currently, the arrival infector remains undetermined. However, it is unlikely that the malware is downloaded from malicious sites, as the POS systems are typically not used for web browsing.

Based on our analysis of the malware, BKDR_DEXTR.A downloads files, sends information, and checks memory for information among others. But the centerpiece of the malware is its ability to collect and send certain information to a remote server. Some of the possible data that can be stolen from POS systems include such as username, hostname, key to decrypt the sent information, OS information, and list of running processes. These data are then presumably duplicated by remote malicious users.